BEST RAP / HIP HOP BAND / ARTIST

Gypsy Collabo

Formed when rock band the Tipsy Gypsys connected with hip-hop collective Collabo, the colorful combination continues to hold court over all things rap and hip-hop in Springfield. With the number of entries in this category down a great deal from last year, we’re left wondering if the genre, once on the rise in the capital city, has peaked and dropped. No matter to Gypsy Collabo, as the assertive group of rocking, hip-hoppers now spend time in St. Louis, expanding the GC experience to more listeners. Current members David Hale III, Jon McGrath, Derek Anderson, Matt Scherer and Colin Helton are actively searching for other musicians to join the music-making combo in taking it to the streets.

Runner-up: 808